Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need counselling? We all need counselling from time to time to manage the pain and discomfort that arises in life. Unlike the mainstream portrayal of counselling and psychotherapy, counselling is not just for people with mental health diagnoses. People seek counselling for various reasons such as anxiety, depression, mood dysregulation, substance use dependence, changes in life (divorce, break-up, job changes, retiring, graduation, etc), work-related challenges, stress, physical illnesses and diagnoses, mental health illnesses and diagnoses, trauma, and personal growth.
I have never been to counselling, what should I expect? Counselling sessions look different depending on whether it is individual counselling or couples counselling. For individual counselling, the first session is dedicated to assessment and information gathering. Typical questions that will be asked include the concern that motivated you to seek counselling, your goals for counselling, and your physical and mental health history. This information is important for us to have a better understanding of your concern/s and possible triggers, and create a customized treatment plan. If you are seeking couples counselling: The first and second sessions are dedicated to assessment and information gathering. Commonly asked questions include relationship history, level of commitment towards the relationship, your goals for counselling, and health history. This information is important for us to have a better understanding of the issues and to create a customized treatment plan.
How much does counselling cost? The rate/ fee/ cost for counselling differs depending on whether it is individual or couples counselling. Individual counselling: Session Rate/ Fee/ Cost: $125 for 50 minutes $187.50 for 75 minutes Couples counselling: Session Rate/ Cost/ Fee: $140 for 50 minutes $210 for 75 minutes
How can I pay for my session? We accept credit cards, debit cards, and coverage from the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA). For FNHA clients a preapproval from FNHA is needed. If you have benefits through your insurance, you will have to submit your receipts to your insurance for reimbursement. Please get confirmation from your insurance provider.
Can I deduct the cost of counselling from my income taxes? Yes, because our counsellor is a Registered Social Worker the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) recognizes our counselling services as medical expenses. You will have the ability to claim your expenses on your income tax through the Medical Expense Tax Credit (METC). For more information please contact CRA and/or visit their website.
How are the counselling sessions offered? We offer virtual counselling services through telephone and a secured PIPA-compliant video platform for clients anywhere in British Columbia. Please note: Personal Information Protection Act (PIPA)
What technique does the counsellor use? The therapeutic approaches used in sessions vary depending on the identified concerns, goals, and lengths of treatment. Some of the therapeutic approaches used for individual counselling in our agency are Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Solution-Focused Therapy. For couples counselling, we use the Gottman Method Approach to Couples Counselling, Emotion Focused Therapy, Solution Focused Family Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
Can I cancel my session? Yes. You can cancel your sessions for any reason. We need at least 48-hour notice. If you do not cancel your appointment, cancel without proper notice, or do not show up for the session, we will bill you for the session. If you are sick or have other emergencies, please let us know, and we will accommodate your request Please be advised that most insurance providers do not reimburse for no-shows.
What happens to my information? The information you provide is protected under a confidentiality agreement and kept secure according to the Personal Information Protection Act (PIPA). None of your information will be released unless you request it to be released and you sign a Release of Information 'ROI' consent. There are few exceptions to confidentiality: if there is a risk of abuse or neglect of a minor; an imminent risk of suicide or homicide; and if there is a court order or information has been subpoenaed. If any of the above-mentioned risks are identified our counsellor has a duty to report, therefore they will talk to you and make you aware.